The Elite Stratocaster was introduced by Fender in 1983. It started life as a USA-made model until 1985, when production was moved to Japan (Fujigen Gakki) before being finally discontinued in 1987.
This guitar is a unique early US Fender Custom Shop-made instrument. Based on the parts dating from 1983/1984, predating the official launch of the Custom Shop in 1987, and with the Fender Custom Shop certificate dating to 1990, it is thought that this guitar was produced by the Custom Shop using leftover Elite-series components.
While sharing many elements with a traditional Stratocaster, the Elite integrated active electronics into an upgraded Stratocaster design, with a TBX treble/bass expander and an active MDX midrange booster with 12dB of gain. Other features of the Elite include a Free Flyte tremolo bridge, individual push pickup selectors and three special-design alnico 2 single-coil pickups with solid covers and an internal dummy coil for hum cancellation. The sound of the Elite Stratocaster can be described as more humbucker-like compared to a traditional single coil-equipped guitar, especially with the TBX and MDX circuits at their maximum.
The guitar is in fantastic condition with only tiny dings/marks to show for its 36+ years (see last picture - other marks too small to pick up on pictures). The transparent Emerald Green finish over the Ash body looks fantastic and is still very vibrant in colour, with the grain of the wood coming through. The Maple neck, Rosewood fretboard and frets: are all in great condition with no visible wear. The guitar has been setup with nicely with a new set of Super Slinky 9s - Comes complete with its original tweed hard case including John Page signed Certificate of Authenticity, dated November 1990, Fender strap with strap locks and non original gold tremolo arm.
Shipping within mainland UK using fully insured 24-hour courier service @ £35.00.
Shipping to US/Canada, using UPS, is £185.00. Shipping to EU is £65.00
Customers outside of UK/EU/US/Canada should contact Vintage Rare & Retro Guitars for a shipping quotation. Free pick-up is always available at our Gullane shop.
